International

New rider for Big Duke (IRE) after Williams looses appeal

A new rider will be declared for the Darren Weir trained Big Duke (IRE) for the $2m, Group 1 Schweppes Sydney Cup (3200m) at Randwick on Saturday after Craig Williams lost his appeal to the Victorian Racing Appeals and Disciplinary Board on Wednesday over his suspension from Sandown-Lakeside on Monday.

Heard By: Judge Bowman (Chair).

Appearances: Mr Robert Cram appeared on behalf of the Racing Victoria stewards.

Mr Matt Hyland appeared on behalf of Mr Williams.

At Sandown Lakeside on Monday 17 April 2017, jockey Craig Williams pleaded guilty to a charge of careless riding on his mount Lopartega in Race 6 the Ladbrokes Odds Boost Extra Handicap (1600m).

The carelessness being that he permitted his mount to shift out near the 400m when not sufficiently clear of Rocbolt resulting in Rocbolt having to be checked to avoid the heels of Lopartega.

Mr Williams had his licence to ride in races suspended for a period to commence at midnight on Monday, 17 April 2017 and to expire at midnight on Sunday, 23 April 2017 – a total of 8 race meetings (1 metro, 7 provincial).

In assessing penalty Stewards took into account his guilty plea and good record and that the carelessness was in the low range.

A Notice of Appeal against the severity of the penalty was lodged on Monday, 17 April 2017. A stay of proceedings was not requested.